Introduction – Into the Wild
The city faded behind us as we drove towards Kawal Tiger Reserve, Telangana’s prime destination for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. Nestled in the Adilabad district, this sanctuary is home to diverse flora and fauna, including the majestic Indian tiger, leopards, sloth bears, and spotted deer. The air was thick with the scent of damp earth and towering teak trees as we entered the sanctuary gates, ready for an adventure into the heart of the wild.
If you’re a wildlife lover looking for a weekend getaway from Hyderabad, this guide will take you through safari experiences, timings, entry fees, must-visit spots, and pro travel tips to make your trip unforgettable.
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🌿 The Journey to Kawal Tiger Reserve
Our adventure began early in the morning as we set off from Hyderabad at 4:30 AM, cruising along NH 44. The highway was lined with fields and occasional roadside eateries serving hot chai and dosas. After a quick breakfast stop at Nirmal, we continued towards the sanctuary, reaching the entry gate by 10:00 AM.
The transition from urban chaos to untouched wilderness was immediate—the roads became narrower, lined with towering teak and bamboo trees, and the air carried the fresh scent of the forest.
🐾 Wildlife Safari Experience at Kawal
The Kawal Tiger Reserve is part of Project Tiger, and while spotting a tiger is rare, the sanctuary offers a chance to see leopards, bison, sambar deer, wild boars, sloth bears, langurs, and over 250 species of birds.
🚙 Morning Jeep Safari – Into the Wild
We hopped onto a jeep safari (₹800 per jeep, up to 6 people) and ventured deep into the forest. The cool morning breeze carried the chirping of birds, and within 15 minutes, we spotted a herd of chital (spotted deer) grazing near a watering hole.
Further down, a sudden rustle in the bushes made us hold our breath—a sloth bear appeared for a few moments before vanishing into the undergrowth. Our guide shared fascinating insights about the ecosystem, pointing out pugmarks of a leopard that had passed through the area earlier that morning.
Jungle Safari Booking – Kadam Dam Wildlife Experience
Don’t miss the jungle safari that takes you deep into the surrounding forests, offering a chance to spot wildlife in its natural habitat. Here are the complete details for booking a jungle safari at the nearby Kawal Tiger Reserve, which is part of the same ecosystem.
🚙 Jungle Safari Packages & Pricing
📅 Weekday Safari (Monday – Thursday)
- Package Cost: ₹3,500 for up to 6 members
- Additional Member: ₹500 per person
- Maximum Capacity: 8 members
📅 Weekend Safari (Friday – Sunday)
- Package Cost: ₹4,000 for up to 6 members
- Additional Member: ₹500 per person
- Maximum Capacity: 8 members
⏳ Jungle Safari Timings
The safari lasts 2 hours and covers the core and buffer zones of the forest. Choose from these time slots:
- Morning Safari: 6:30 AM
- Mid-Morning Safari: 9:30 AM
- Evening Safari: 3:30 PM
🚫 Important Information
- Safari is closed from July 1st to September 30th due to the monsoon season.
- Booking is recommended during weekends and holidays.
- Safaris are conducted in luxury forest department vehicles, ensuring safety and an immersive experience.
For pre-booking for the Jungle Safari, Visit Here
📍 Must-Visit Spots Inside the Sanctuary
- Kawal Lake – A serene water body where birds and animals gather, offering fantastic photography opportunities.
- Fire Watch Tower – A high vantage point that provides panoramic views of the forest canopy.
- Jannaram Eco-Tourism Center – An informative spot to learn about conservation efforts and local biodiversity.
🕒 Timings & Entry Fee
- Entry Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Jeep Safari Timings:
- Morning Safari: 6:00 AM – 10:00 AM
- Evening Safari: 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹50 per person
- Safari Fee: ₹800 per jeep (up to 6 people)
- Parking Fee: ₹50 for bikes, ₹100 for cars
NOTE: That every year from July 1st to September 30th, the Tiger Reserve is closed for tourism
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🍽️ Food & Accommodation Near Kawal Tiger Reserve
Since the sanctuary is in a remote location, food options inside are limited. However, Jannaram village (15 km away) has small eateries serving local Telangana-style meals.
🏕️ Stay Options
For those who want to stay overnight, here are some great options:
- Haritha Eco-Tourism Resort (Jannaram) – Managed by Telangana Tourism, offering cottages and safari bookings.
- Forest Rest Houses – Available via prior booking through the Telangana Forest Department.
- Hotels in Nirmal & Adilabad – Suitable for budget travelers.
For the best Hotels in Nirmal and Adilabad, check here
Photo Gallery of Kawal Sanctuary
How to Reach Kawal Tiger Reserve (KTR)
🚗 By Road:
- From Hyderabad: 300 km via NH 44 (~6 hours)
- From Nagpur: 280 km (~5.5 hours)
- From Bangalore: 800 km (~14 hours)
🚉 Nearest Railway Station:
- Mancherial Railway Station (on the Hyderabad – New Delhi route)
- Distance: 110 km from the Kawal Tiger Reserve
✈️ Nearest Airport:
- Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad – 300 km
- Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport, Nagpur – 280 km
Find the best deals here: Flights & Hotels
🌟 Pro Travel Tips for a Smooth Trip
- Start early to maximize your wildlife-spotting chances.
- Wear earthy-colored clothing to blend into the surroundings.
- Carry binoculars & a camera for better wildlife viewing.
- Pack sufficient food & water as facilities inside the sanctuary are minimal.
- Respect wildlife – keep quiet and avoid littering.
- Pre-book safaris during peak seasons to avoid last-minute unavailability.
🔚 Final Thoughts – A Hidden Wildlife Paradise
Kawal Wildlife Sanctuary offers a rare chance to experience the raw beauty of nature and the diverse wildlife of Telangana. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a photographer, or a nature lover, this trip is sure to leave you in awe. So, pack your bags, fuel up your car, and set off on an unforgettable wildlife adventure! 🦌🌳🚙
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Kawal Wildlife Sanctuary is in Adilabad district, Telangana, approximately 260 km from Hyderabad.
The best time to visit is October to May, when the weather is pleasant and wildlife sightings are frequent. Avoid the monsoon season (June to September) due to heavy rains and muddy trails.
Kawal is home to various wildlife, including tigers, leopards, sloth bears, sambar deer, spotted deer, wild boars, langurs, and over 250 species of birds.
You can book a safari at the sanctuary entrance or through Haritha Eco-Tourism Resort in Jannaram. It’s advisable to pre-book during peak season (winter months).
